Epictetus’ Top 5 Must-Have Smartphone Apps

Imagine if Epictetus, the ancient Stoic philosopher, lived in our era and had a smartphone. Which apps would he use? Epictetus, known for his teachings on control, acceptance, and personal freedom, might find several modern apps aligning with his philosophical approach to life. Here are five apps that would likely resonate with Epictetus.

1. Insight Timer – For Mindfulness and Inner Peace:

Epictetus emphasized the importance of inner peace and self-discipline. He said, “We cannot choose our external circumstances, but we can always choose how we respond to them.” Insight Timer, with its vast library of meditations and teachings, would be his go-to app for maintaining tranquility amidst life’s chaos.

2. Evernote – For Journaling and Reflection:

As a philosopher who taught the art of reflection and introspection, Epictetus would appreciate Evernote for its journaling and note-taking capabilities. He believed in the power of writing for personal growth, famously stating, “First say to yourself what you would be; and then do what you have to do.”

3. HabitBull – For Habit Tracking and Discipline:

Epictetus was all about self-control and forming good habits. HabitBull, a habit-tracking app, would help him practice and track his Stoic disciplines daily, aligning with his teaching, “No great thing is created suddenly.”

4. Duolingo – For Learning and Growth:

A proponent of continual learning, Epictetus would find Duolingo appealing. This language-learning app would align with his belief in the importance of expanding one’s knowledge and skills as a path to personal freedom.

5. Headspace – For Meditation and Stoic Practice:

Epictetus would likely use Headspace for its guided meditations. The app’s focus on mindfulness and dealing with thoughts effectively would resonate with his teachings on managing perceptions and emotions.

Conclusion: In the contemporary world, these five apps would align well with Epictetus’s Stoic principles, aiding in mindfulness, learning, reflection, and self-discipline – essential tools for living a life of wisdom and tranquility.